Cochrane is a small Alberta town with a big sense of adventure. Just 20 minutes west of Calgary in the foothills of the Canadian Rockies, it’s a thrill-seeker’s haven for out-of-the-box outdoor experiences.
We’re not just talking about a leisurely hike or cycle. These Alberta adventures are the kind that’ll get you out of your comfort zone and leave you with stories to tell for years. From mountainside horseback riding and white water rafting, to paintball, combat archery, and more, we’ve got activities to push your limits.
Top 3 high-octane Cochrane, Alberta adventures
Experience a full day of thrills at Boundary Ranch
If you want to feel like a true cowboy exploring vast mountain ranges, you need to learn from the best. Boundary Ranch, located in majestic Kananaskis Country (west of Cochrane), is the place to go.
The Guinn family opened Boundary Ranch in 1987, but their legacy dates back to the 1930s when Guinn Outfitters started riding and guiding in the Canadian Rockies. Since its inception, Boundary Ranch has grown its operation from 15 horses to over 100 horses, a small herd of buffalo, and more.
Nowadays at the ranch, you can experience a jaw-dropping Alberta adventure on scenic backcountry trails. But horseback riding isn’t all you can do there.
If you love the rush of dog sledding in winter, you’ll get a thrill from the Woof & Hoof adventure. It combines a dryland dog cart tour whizzing through the forest with an exciting trail ride that traverses down a rock cut.
Or, embark on the Surf & Saddle adventure for a ridge ride on horseback plus white water river rafting near Calgary. You’ll travel about 12 km through Class I to III rapids on the roaring Kananaskis River.
Create your ultimate adventure at Capture the Flag
Looking for paintball near Calgary? Gulp down the fresh air as you run through the paintball course at Capture the Flag Outdoor Paintball & Airsoft, legs pumping and heart thumping.
Located on an acreage in the wilderness northwest of Cochrane, Capture the Flag offers 22 courses spanning 116 acres. It’s one of the world’s largest paintball fields. With so much adventure to be had, we recommend the “go big or go home” approach: build your own Ultimate Challenge.
Choose from adrenaline-inducing activities like paintball or airsoft target shooting, axe and knife throwing, and combat archery tag. Then, catch your breath as you enjoy lunch on the patio (aptly named “Heaven”) with a direct line of sight to the towering Canadian Rockies.
Go off-roading in a Jeep with Wheel Fun Adventures
Hop behind the wheel of a Jeep Wrangler outfitted with a roof-top tent (complete with all of your camping essentials) and hit the open road. Wheel Fun Adventures’ all-inclusive rental vehicles give you the freedom to explore the Canadian Rockies on your own schedule. This is Alberta adventure at its finest.
Owned by Jenelle Cousins and Kevin Wilson, who are both passionate about travelling and getting outdoors, Wheel Fun Adventures’ mission is to set you up with everything you need to experience the wilderness with confidence.
Tap into your wanderlust and travel from the rolling foothills of Cochrane through the Canadian Rockies, all the way to the west coast of British Columbia. Long term rental discounts are available.
A word to the wise: Wheel Fun Adventures’ vehicles are suitable for off-roading, but the activity isn’t covered by the company’s insurance policy.
More exhilarating activities you can’t miss
Make a splash river rafting near Calgary
Fly down the Upper Red Deer River with Hunter Valley Adventures during a half- or full-day white water rafting or kayaking excursion on Class II and III rapids. Or, test your balance as you paddle down the Bow River from Ghost Lake to Cochrane on a stand-up paddleboard with GhostekNorth.
Climb to new heights with Alpine Air Adventures
Daredevils will love exploring the rugged, wild terrain of Banff National Park with a guided tour right from the doorstep of your accommodation in Cochrane. Alpine Air Adventures will guide you up into the mountains and all the way to the summit with a heart-pounding alpine climb.
Get adventurous with local cuisine
Immerse yourself in Cochrane’s ranching heritage at Stockmen’s Memorial Foundation, where you can book a Branding Experience for private groups. If you want to give your group a laugh, ask Stockmen’s to whip up a batch of Prairie Oysters to try (also known as calf testicles).
Get your adrenaline fix in Cochrane
Cochrane is no sleepy small town. If you’re ready to get your heart pumping, we’ve got plenty of Alberta adventures to choose from. Whether you’re looking for paintball near Calgary or you want to test your technical skills on a sky-high rock wall in the mountains, we can help you make it happen.
Want to browse on your own? Download the Explore Cochrane app to find even more activities.
